
Let’s be honest — nothing in Australia is ever truly free once you factor in the drive, the servo stops, and that cheeky ice cream at the lookout kiosk. But here’s the good news: visiting the 12 Apostles on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road won’t cost you an entry fee. Yep, it’s free to visit — the real costs sneak in with how you get there, what you eat, and whether you want the view from a chopper.
From nearby walks like the Great Ocean Walk to icons like London Bridge, Loch Ard Gorge, and Gibson Steps, this entire stretch of the Shipwreck Coast is packed with natural drama. You’ll pass through lush spots like Great Otway National Park, encounter sea stacks like Gog and Magog, and maybe even spot Aussie animals near Kennett River or Melba Gully. Whether you’re hiking through eucalyptus trees in the Otway rainforest or sipping a tinnie in Port Campbell, this guide covers every dollar you might fork out along the way.
I’ve done this drive more times than I can count — in tour buses, solo with a swag, and with a carload of backpackers half-asleep on servo pies. Let me break it down for you, brass tacks style, so you know what you’re signing up for before you hit Victoria’s Great Ocean Road.
Entry to the 12 Apostles: Absolutely Free
There’s no gate, no turnstile, no ranger asking for coin. Parks Victoria runs the Twelve Apostles site as part of Port Campbell National Park, and there’s no charge to enter. The main viewing platform is free, accessible, and open 24/7.
BUT:
- There are no toilets right at the platform. The nearest dunny is at the 12 Apostles Visitor Centre car park.
- You can’t climb the limestone rock stacks (they’re protected, and crumbling).
Car Costs: Petrol, Parking & Permits
Driving is the most common way to get there — and for good reason. You’ll want flexibility to pull over for whale spotting or snag a hot jam donut in Lorne.
Petrol
- From Melbourne to 12 Apostles (one way): ~275 km
- Return fuel cost: Around $50–$80 depending on your car
Parking
- Cost: Free at the main 12 Apostles car park
- Overflow lots: Free too — but pack patience in peak season
Rental Car
- 1-day hire: From $70–$150
- Insurance excess: Often an extra $30–$40 per day to reduce liability
Tours to the 12 Apostles: From Budget to Bougie
If driving’s not your gig, plenty of operators run day trips and overnight Sightseeing Tours from Melbourne.
Day Tours from Melbourne
- Budget coach tour: $105–$150 pp
- Small group tours (like we run at Get Lost Travel): $130–$180 pp
- Luxury tours or Helicopter Tour combo: $300–$800 pp
Inclusions to Check:
- Is lunch included?
- Are National Park fees covered?
- Will there be photo stops at The Arch, Loch Ard Gorge, or London Bridge?
Accommodation Costs Nearby
If you want to stay the night, Port Campbell is your closest base. But spots like Apollo Bay or even Warrnambool make great jumping-off points too.
Port Campbell
- Caravan park powered site: $35–$60
- Budget motel: $110–$160 per night
- Mid-range hotel or B&B: $180–$250
Apollo Bay (1.5 hr east)
- Cheaper options than Port Campbell
- Bonus: more places to eat
Food & Coffee: Bring Snacks or Buy Local
There’s no café or food vendor at the 12 Apostles site itself — you’ll need to eat before or after. Closest options are:
- Port Campbell bakery: $7–$12 for a decent feed
- Princetown general store (basic supplies)
- Self-cater: Pack a picnic (just keep an eye on the mozzies)
Traveller Tip: Apollo Bay’s fish and chips are solid. Fuel up there if you’re on a round trip.
Optional Extras That’ll Cost You
Helicopter Flights
- Price: $165–$570 per person
- Operator: 12 Apostles Helicopters (on site)
- Best time: Clear skies around midday — better light, less shadow on the stacks
Gibson Steps Access
- Free — but steep and can be closed after heavy rain or high tide
- Check conditions on the Parks Victoria site
Drone Use
- Permits required
- Strictly regulated (and sometimes banned altogether)
- Fines apply if you ignore the rules
Travel Insurance (Recommended)
- Cost: ~$50 for a week of Aussie domestic cover
- Covers: Rental car damage, cancellations, lost gear
Budget Breakdown Cheat Sheet
Cost Category | Budget Traveller | Mid-range Explorer | Luxe Seeker |
---|---|---|---|
Entry Fee | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Fuel/Transport | $40 (shared fuel) | $130 (small group tour) | $400 (helicopter & limo combo) |
Food | $15 (picnic) | $30 (local café) | $60+ (sit-down meal) |
Accommodation (optional) | Free (day trip) | $160 (motel) | $250+ (B&B or hotel) |
Total | $55+ | $320+ | $710+ |
Real Travel Tips from the Track
- Go Early or Stay Late: Sunrise and sunset are gold.
- Watch for Wildlife: Slow down for echidnas and wallabies.
- Weather Moves Fast: Pack layers.
- Summer Crowds: Peak season = packed like sardines.
FAQs: How Much Does It Cost to Go to the 12 Apostles?
Is it free to visit the 12 Apostles?
Yes — no entry fee. Viewing platforms are open and accessible.
Are there any hidden fees to look out for?
Only for extras like helicopter rides, drone permits, or organised tours.
Can I visit without a tour?
Absolutely. Many choose the self-guided walks approach and do a DIY road trip.
Is it worth staying overnight?
Yes — for sunsets, guided walk options, or visits to nearby spots like Wreck Beach and Gables Lookout.
How much is the Helicopter Tour?
Starts around $165, can climb to $570+ depending on the length of flight experience.
Final Thought: Worth Every Dollar, Even When It’s Free
You don’t need a platinum credit card to see the Twelve Apostles — just a full tank and a sense of adventure. Whether you’re road-tripping solo or with a mate, it’s one of those Aussie icons that lives up to the hype.
Along the way, consider side trips to Devil’s Kitchen, Milanesia Gate, or the Split Point Lighthouse near Aireys Inlet. You can wander rainforest walks like Mait’s Rest, explore lookout points near Barham Reserve and Anglesea River, or track Otway Panther legends with a camera in hand.
Flying in? Options include Essendon Airport, Barwon Heads Airport, and even heli pads. After a ripper day out, a tinnie by the Gellibrand estuary hits the spot.
Got questions? Thinking of booking? Our crew at Get Lost Travel (yep, proud Certificate of Excellence holders and finalists in the Victorian Tourism Awards) runs honest, fair dinkum tours across this coast. Reach out anytime.